Could Former Bengal Minister Partha Chatterjee's Bail Be Cancelled?
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Synopsis
A special CBI judge has issued a stern warning to former West Bengal Education Minister Partha Chatterjee regarding his bail status in the primary teachers recruitment corruption case. His absence from a crucial court hearing could lead to significant legal repercussions.
Key Takeaways
- Judge warns Chatterjee about potential bail cancellation.
- Failure to appear could have serious legal consequences.
- Chatterjee's absence raises questions about the ongoing case.
- High-profile figures present in court indicate the case's significance.
- Next hearing is essential for determining future proceedings.
Kolkata, Nov 26 (NationPress) A specialized judge from the CBI has issued a warning to Partha Chatterjee, the former Education Minister of West Bengal, indicating that his bail related to the primary teachers recruitment fraud could be revoked due to his failure to attend the court hearing.
During the hearing held on Wednesday, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) addressed the primary teachers recruitment case, where the accused were mandated to appear in person. However, Chatterjee was absent.
Judge Suvendu Saha remarked that Chatterjee, along with others, was granted bail by the high court on the stipulation of appearing before the court on appointed dates.
Chatterjee's attorney cited health issues as the reason for his absence, informing the court of a submitted application to that effect. Nevertheless, the judge cautioned: "This court has the authority to revoke bail should the accused fail to appear." On the same day, Chatterjee's lawyer presented his passport to the court in compliance with bail conditions.
Another accused individual in the case, Shantanu Banerjee, was also not present.
Meanwhile, several individuals, including state minister Chandranath Sinha, Kuntal Ghosh, and Chatterjee's associate Arpita Mukherjee, were in attendance. Mukherjee requested the court to reopen her three bank accounts, which had been closed, arguing that they were established in 2002, prior to the existence of this case.
The request will be addressed on December 8.
On November 11, Chatterjee was granted bail from judicial detention after over three years in the wake of his arrest by the ED in the extensive SSC teacher recruitment scandal in July 2022. During his arrest, the ED uncovered Rs 20 crore in cash from Arpita Mukherjee's residence, who was also arrested in connection with the same case.
In September, the Calcutta High Court approved Chatterjee's bail, who had been in custody of the ED and subsequently the CBI before being placed into judicial custody.
Despite the bail order, Chatterjee's release was delayed due to a Supreme Court directive stating his release would occur only after the trial court completes its examination of material witnesses within two months.
Point of View
The situation surrounding Partha Chatterjee highlights the ongoing struggle against corruption within educational recruitment processes in India. The implications of this case resonate widely, as it underscores the judiciary's commitment to holding influential figures accountable while ensuring that legal proceedings are adhered to.
NationPress
26/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens if Partha Chatterjee does not appear in court?
If Partha Chatterjee continues to miss court appearances, the judge has the authority to cancel his bail.
Why was Chatterjee arrested?
Chatterjee was arrested in connection with a multi-crore corruption scandal related to the SSC teacher recruitment process.
What did the Enforcement Directorate find during Chatterjee's arrest?
During his arrest, the ED discovered Rs 20 crore in cash at the residence of Arpita Mukherjee, who is also implicated in the case.
When is the next court hearing for this case?
The next hearing is scheduled for December 8, where additional matters, including bank account issues raised by Arpita Mukherjee, will be discussed.
What are the conditions of Chatterjee's bail?
Chatterjee was granted bail on the condition that he appears in court on specified dates, among other requirements.
